The Community Development Department is responsible for planning & zoning, building and safety, and housing and redevelopment for the City of Santa Barbara. On this web page you will find information about each of the divisions, ongoing projects, information about existing building permits, neighborhood information, historic resources, important planning projects and much more.
Milpas Action Task Force Report
The Milpas Action Task Force was formed in March 2004, in response to an appeal of the Planning Commission’s decision to approve amendments to a Parking Modification, a Conditional Use Permit and a Coastal Development Permit to increase the year-round bed capacity at Casa Esperanza from 30 to 100 beds. Council denied the appeal but directed Casa Esperanza, in conjunction with City staff and an expanded Neighborhood Advisory Committee, to respond to homeless issues and impacts along the Milpas Street Corridor and develop and implement a comprehensive plan to address the neighborhood problems identified during the public hearing.
This Plan titled, Milpas Action Task Force Report - Strategies to Resolve Neighborhood Concerns in the Area Surrounding Casa Esperanza, was presented to the Planning Commission on November 18, 2004.
New Office Hours - City of Santa Barbara’s Modified 9/80 Schedule
In an effort to decrease traffic congestion during peak commuter hours and to reduce vehicle emissions, City Council approved a compressed "9/80" work schedule in July 2007.
Under the newly adopted 9/80 Schedule, employees will work 80 hours in nine work days rather than the conventional ten work days. To better serve the public, many offices, public counters, and departments will be open for an additional hour on Monday through Thursday. Offices will be closed every other Friday.
Single Family Design Guidelines/ Neighborhood Preservation Ordinance Update
The Neighborhood Preservation Ordinance (NPO) was adopted in 1991 and requires Architectural Board of Review (ABR) to review proposed large two-story single-family residential projects. The NPO also established the Hillside District, where ABR review applies to homes on lots on over a 20% slope.
The ultimate NPO Update goal is to achieve a single family design review system which ensures neighborhood compatibility while meeting the needs and expectations of the community. The NPO Update is expected to improve the municipal code and single family design guidelines.
View Dispute Resolution Process
The Santa Barbara City Council has adopted an ordinance (SBMC Section 22.76) establishing a private process for neighbors to resolve disputes regarding the alleged blockage of private views by trees or vegetation. This brochure and Trees and Views Guide are offered as a guide to help you and your neighbors understand the View Dispute Resolution Process.